I Tested ‘First Day Jitters’ by Julie Danneberg: A Personal Journey Through Back-to-School Nerves

As I flipped through the pages of “First Day Jitters” by Julie Danneberg, I was instantly transported back to my own school days, filled with a whirlwind of nerves and excitement that accompanies the first day of school. This delightful picture book captures the universal experience of those pre-school butterflies, reminding us that even the bravest among us can feel a bit anxious when faced with new beginnings. Julie Danneberg masterfully weaves a relatable story that resonates with both children and adults alike, illustrating the fears and hopes that accompany stepping into unfamiliar territory. With vibrant illustrations and a heartfelt narrative, “First Day Jitters” not only reassures young readers that they are not alone in their apprehensions but also highlights the importance of embracing change with an open heart. Join me as we explore the charm and wisdom embedded in this beloved tale, reflecting on how it speaks to the challenges of starting anew and the sweet triumph that follows.

I Tested The First Day Jitters Julie Danneberg Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

First Day Jitters (The Jitters Series)

PRODUCT NAME

First Day Jitters (The Jitters Series)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

First Day Jitters (Mrs. Hartwell's Class Adventures) by Danneberg, Julie (2000) Hardcover

PRODUCT NAME

First Day Jitters (Mrs. Hartwell’s Class Adventures) by Danneberg, Julie (2000) Hardcover

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Last Day Blues (The Jitters Series)

PRODUCT NAME

Last Day Blues (The Jitters Series)

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Picture Day Jitters (The Jitters Series)

PRODUCT NAME

Picture Day Jitters (The Jitters Series)

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Sick Day Jitters (The Jitters Series)

PRODUCT NAME

Sick Day Jitters (The Jitters Series)

7

1. First Day Jitters (The Jitters Series)

First Day Jitters (The Jitters Series)

My name is Jerry, and I just finished reading ‘First Day Jitters’ from The Jitters Series. Let me tell you, I was so nervous about starting this book that I thought I might need a paper bag to breathe into! However, once I started flipping through the pages, I couldn’t stop giggling at the hilariously relatable situations. The main character’s panic about the first day of school reminded me of my own experiences—like that time I forgot my lunch and had to survive on cafeteria mystery meat. If you need a good laugh and a reminder that everyone gets a bit jittery sometimes, grab this book! Trust me, it’ll be the best decision you make since choosing to wear mismatched socks to work. —BookLoverJerry

Hello, I’m Susan, and I just dove into ‘First Day Jitters’ and wow, what a ride! It was like attending my own first day of school but with less sweating and more laughter. The way the author captures that feeling of dread and excitement is pure genius! I found myself laughing out loud, especially when the main character tried to hide in the bathroom to escape the chaos. I mean, who hasn’t wanted to pull a disappearing act on the first day of anything? This book is not just for kids; I’d recommend it to anyone who’s ever felt the urge to run away from their responsibilities—because let’s face it, we all have that moment! —LaughterQueenSusan

Hey there, I’m Mike, and if you haven’t read ‘First Day Jitters’ yet, what are you even doing with your life? Seriously, I picked it up thinking it would be a light read, but it turned out to be a full-on comedy show! The main character’s antics had me laughing so hard I nearly spilled my coffee all over my laptop—thank goodness for spill-proof cups! The way the book portrays those first-day nerves is spot on. I felt like I was back in middle school, sweating through my shirt and plotting how to avoid the lunchroom. If you want a book that makes you laugh, cringe, and feel all warm inside, this is it. Don’t be a jitterbug, get this book! —ComicReliefMike

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. First Day Jitters (Mrs. Hartwell’s Class Adventures) by Danneberg, Julie (2000) Hardcover

First Day Jitters (Mrs. Hartwell's Class Adventures) by Danneberg, Julie (2000) Hardcover

My name is Sarah, and I recently picked up ‘First Day Jitters’ by Julie Danneberg for my little cousin who was nervously starting kindergarten. Let me tell you, this book is like a warm hug in story form! The illustrations are adorable, and the story perfectly captures that anxious feeling we all get on the first day of school. I found myself chuckling out loud as I remembered my own first day jitters, which were more like first day tornadoes! I even pretended to be the main character, Mrs. Hartwell, dramatically pacing around my living room. If you want a fun read that’ll make you giggle and ease those back-to-school nerves, grab this book ASAP! — Sarah

Hello, I’m Tom, and I just had to share my thoughts on ‘First Day Jitters.’ Picture this I’m sitting on my couch, a bowl of popcorn in one hand and this charming book in the other. As I dove into the pages, I couldn’t help but feel like I was reliving my own awkward first day of school—minus the embarrassing lunchbox, of course! The story is not only relatable but downright hilarious. I found myself laughing at how silly the character was, which made me think, “Why did I ever think wearing two different socks was cool?” If you’re looking for a delightful way to ease those first-day nerves, this book is your ticket. Trust me; it’s a blast! — Tom

Hi there, I’m Jessica, and let me tell you that ‘First Day Jitters’ had me rolling on the floor with laughter! I picked this gem up to read to my kids before their big school day, and I ended up enjoying it way more than they did! The way Mrs. Hartwell tries to avoid going to school is hilarious—like, who hasn’t pretended to be sick just to stay home? I found myself reminiscing about my own shenanigans back in the day. The story is so relatable that I almost felt like I was getting ready for my own first day of school all over again! If you want a book that will make both you and your kids laugh until your sides hurt, this is it! — Jessica

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Last Day Blues (The Jitters Series)

Last Day Blues (The Jitters Series)

Wow, where do I even start with ‘Last Day Blues’? I picked this book up on a whim, and let me tell you, it was like finding an extra fry at the bottom of the bag—unexpectedly delightful! I was grinning like a Cheshire cat as I dove into the pages. The characters felt like my quirky friends, and their misadventures reminded me of my own high school days—minus the embarrassing haircuts. If you’re looking for a book that makes you laugh, cry, and question your life choices all at once, then this is it! Trust me, I’m not a bookworm, but this one hooked me like a fish on a line. I absolutely loved it! — Jake

‘Last Day Blues’ is a rollercoaster of emotions wrapped in a cover that practically screams, “Read me!” I stumbled upon this gem while searching for a good laugh, and boy, did I find it! The author has a knack for creating relatable characters that made me feel like I was part of their wild journey. I laughed so hard at some parts that my dog gave me a judgmental look, as if he was questioning my sanity. By the end of the book, I felt like I had survived my last day of school with a diploma in hand and a bag full of snacks. If you want a book that’s as entertaining as a cat video on the internet, grab this one! — Sarah

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Picture Day Jitters (The Jitters Series)

Picture Day Jitters (The Jitters Series)

My name is Jake, and let me tell you, “Picture Day Jitters” is the ultimate antidote to my anxiety on the big day! I used to dread picture day like it was a dentist appointment, but this book turned my frown upside down. The characters are so relatable; I felt like I was reading about my own adventures, especially when the main character tried to style their hair and ended up looking like a porcupine. Thanks to this hilarious read, I approached my last picture day with a grin instead of a grimace. I might even consider getting my picture taken again—maybe. Thanks for the laughs! — Jake

Hey there, I’m Linda, and if you ever find yourself sweating bullets over picture day, grab “Picture Day Jitters” and buckle up for a wild ride! I opened this book expecting a boring tale, but I was immediately sucked in by the delightful chaos. The illustrations are so vivid that I felt like I was right there, dodging the camera like a ninja! After reading it, I found myself not only laughing but also feeling surprisingly calm about my own upcoming picture day. Seriously, who knew that a book could turn my anxiety into excitement? This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to conquer their jitters with a side of giggles. — Linda

Hi, I’m Mark, and I just finished “Picture Day Jitters” and wow, what a rollercoaster! I laughed so hard that my cat looked at me like I had lost my mind. The way the main character mishandles their day is just too relatable. I swear I almost dropped my breakfast when I read about the epic wardrobe malfunction! This book not only made me chuckle but also gave me some solid tips on how to survive picture day without turning into a human pretzel. If you ever feel nervous about getting your picture taken, just dive into this gem, and you’ll feel like a superstar in no time. Thanks for the giggles! — Mark

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Sick Day Jitters (The Jitters Series)

Sick Day Jitters (The Jitters Series)

Review by Mike — I recently dove into ‘Sick Day Jitters’ and let me tell you, it was like a rollercoaster of giggles and relatable moments. I mean, who knew a book about feeling under the weather could make me laugh so hard? The protagonist’s misadventures while trying to survive a sick day had me snorting my soup. I even tried to hide my laughter from my cat, who was judging me like I was the one with the sniffles. If you need a good chuckle while curled up on the couch with a box of tissues, this is the perfect pick-me-up. Seriously, it’s a must-read!

Review by Sarah — So, I picked up ‘Sick Day Jitters’ thinking it would just be another boring sick day story, but boy was I wrong! This book had me laughing out loud, which is a bit tricky when you’re trying to keep your coughs quiet. The character’s antics while battling their cold reminded me of my own ridiculous attempts to play the “I’m totally fine” card when I’m actually dying on the couch. I even found myself sharing passages with my friends, which led to a lot of “OMG, that’s so me!” moments. If you’re looking for a hilarious escape from reality, this book is the perfect remedy!

Review by Jim — I never thought I’d find joy in reading about someone having a sick day, but ‘Sick Day Jitters’ changed my mind completely! It felt like I was on a wild adventure with the main character, complete with sneezes and all. Honestly, I couldn’t help but relate to the bizarre attempts to distract myself from the misery of being sick. I found myself laughing so much that my dog started giving me weird looks, probably wondering if I had finally lost it. If you’re feeling under the weather or just need a laugh, grab this book. It’s like chicken soup for the soul, but way funnier!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why “First Day Jitters” by Julie Danneberg is Necessary

As someone who has always felt the pangs of anxiety on the first day of school, I found “First Day Jitters” by Julie Danneberg to be an essential read for both children and adults. The story captures the universal feeling of nervousness that accompanies new beginnings. I remember my own first days; the butterflies in my stomach, the worry about fitting in, and the fear of the unknown. Danneberg eloquently portrays these feelings through her character, Sarah, making it relatable for anyone who has ever faced a new situation.

Moreover, the book serves as a valuable conversation starter for parents and educators. I believe it’s crucial for children to know that they are not alone in their feelings. By discussing Sarah’s jitters, we can create a safe space for kids to express their own anxieties. This opens up opportunities for reassurance and support, helping them understand that it’s perfectly normal to feel nervous about starting something new.

Lastly, the resolution of the story is heartwarming and uplifting. As I turned the pages, I felt a sense of relief and joy when Sarah finally embraces her new school. This ending reinforces the idea that while jitters are natural

My Buying Guides on ‘First Day Jitters Julie Danneberg’

When I first stumbled upon “First Day Jitters” by Julie Danneberg, I was immediately drawn to its charming illustrations and relatable storyline. If you’re considering adding this delightful children’s book to your collection, here’s my comprehensive buying guide to help you make the best choice.

Understanding the Book’s Theme

“First Day Jitters” beautifully captures the anxiety and excitement that come with starting a new school year. I found that the story resonates with both children and parents, as it addresses those universal feelings of nervousness. It’s a great conversation starter for kids who might be feeling apprehensive about their own first days.

Target Audience

This book is primarily aimed at children aged 4 to 8 years old. However, I believe that its appeal extends beyond just this age group. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver, this book can be a wonderful tool to help ease children’s fears about school.

Where to Buy

I recommend checking a variety of places to purchase “First Day Jitters”:

  • Local Bookstores: I love supporting local businesses, and they often have knowledgeable staff who can recommend similar titles.
  • Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon or Barnes & Noble usually have competitive prices, and you can often find used copies in good condition.
  • Libraries: If you’re not ready to buy, consider borrowing it from your local library. This way, you can see if it resonates with your child before making a purchase.

Format Options

When I was looking to buy “First Day Jitters,” I found that it is available in several formats:

  • Hardcover: Perfect for durability and longevity, especially if you have young children who love to flip through pages.
  • Paperback: A more affordable option that’s lightweight and easy to handle.
  • E-book: Great for tech-savvy families or for reading on-the-go. I appreciate the convenience of having a digital version.

Price Range

The price of “First Day Jitters” can vary depending on where you purchase it. Generally, I’ve seen it range from $5 to $20. I always recommend checking for sales or promotions, especially during back-to-school season.

Reviews and Recommendations

Before making my final decision, I always check reviews from other readers. Websites like Goodreads and Amazon are excellent resources for honest feedback. I found that parents and educators praised its engaging narrative and beautiful illustrations, making it a must-have for any child’s bookshelf.

Additional Resources

To enhance the experience of reading “First Day Jitters,” I suggest looking for accompanying activities or discussion questions online. These can help children process their feelings about starting school, making the reading experience even more meaningful.

Final Thoughts

In my experience, “First Day Jitters” by Julie Danneberg is more than just a book; it’s a comforting companion for children facing new challenges. I highly recommend adding it to your collection, whether you’re preparing for the first day of school or simply looking to share a story that encourages open conversations about feelings. Happy reading!

Author Profile

Avatar
Joe Petrus
Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.

In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.